Design Tips to Know Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

1. Know what a bathroom remodel costs. Before you begin any project, it’s important to put your expectations into perspective when it comes to how much money you’re willing to invest. The size of your bathroom, the quality of materials you want to include and whether you’re planning to do some of the labor yourself all can affect the cost of a remodel. Here’s a look at estimated costs for a basic, mid- to upper-range and deluxe bathroom remodel.

Who to hire: It’s recommended that you consult with a designer for any project, but if you’re somewhat knowledgeable, you can do it yourself or hire an experienced contractor to help. Generally, permits are not needed at this level.

A basic bathroom remodel is good for you if: Your budget is limited, obviously. “Or if you’re looking to resell your home but don’t want to spend a ton to make it look nice, this is for you,” says designer Marlene Ritland.

Why the broad range? Well, location, materials, cost of labor and project scope play into it. For example, according to the Houzz Real Cost Finder, the average bathroom remodel in New York costs just over $32,000. In Mississippi it’s just under $14,000.

What you might get: Better fixtures, like a toilet with better flushing capabilities or faucets with better flow. And new features like flooring, a vanity, a sink, lighting, window treatments, hardware, a comfort-height toilet, a 36-inch countertop, a framed mirror that matches the vanity and a recessed medicine chest — all of which are slightly better quality than from a big-box store.

Plus, you can make a few more adjustments to the layout. Maybe you’ll put in a slightly smaller bathtub to make way for a slightly larger shower. Maybe you’ll slide a sink down and move the plumbing slightly to add a tall linen cabinet says Ace Bathrooms Sydney.

Countertops: A higher-grade remnant or custom piece of granite, marble or quartz.

Cabinets: Semicustom pieces with higher-end finishes — glazed instead of just stained — and decorative details like cabinet legs and intricate door panels. “Maybe something made locally or in the U.S. that maximizes every inch in your bathroom for counter space,” says designer Nathan Reynolds-Poulin.